John 14:26 — If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.
How can we hate the people we are commanded to love? This scripture by itself can appear puzzling! That’s why it’s important to read the Bible in its full context (find out what is written before and after the verse!)
Let’s back up to verse 15. Jesus had just told the Parable of the Great Supper. In it, a certain man prepared a great feast and sent his servant out to invite the masses. One by one, those invited gave EXCUSES as to WHY they couldn’t attend.
One man had just bought a piece of property, another needed to test out his yoke of oxen first, and another said NO because he had just gotten married.
Back to hating your father, mother, wife, children, brothers, sisters, and your very own life, we understand more clearly what point Jesus was driving home! Those dearest to us, including ourselves, were never meant to be excuses as to why we cannot follow God wholeheartedly!
Last week, during our Thursday night prayer set, we sang about total surrender and giving God everything!
No pleasure in this world or desire for other things can compare to our relationship with Him!
NO EXCUSES!
No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back (to the things left behind) is fit for the kingdom of God. –Luke 9:62
His heart enthroned above them ALL,
Heart of Nations House of Prayer,
-Mandy Reiszner